Biden Greenlights $1 Billion Military Aid to Israel Including Ammunition and Tactical Vehicles.

President Joe Biden has informed Congress of his intention to send a $1 billion military aid package to Israel, following a temporary suspension of bomb deliveries due to concerns over their use in Gaza, as reported by Financial Times on 15 May 2024. This package includes tank ammunition and tactical vehicles, despite internal opposition and concerns over civilian casualties.
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Since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, the U.S. has supplied substantial military aid to enhance Israel's defense capabilities (Picture source: Israel Defense Forces)

The Biden administration had paused the delivery of 2,000-pound bombs to deter an attack on Rafah, where many Palestinians are sheltering. This pause marked the first instance of Biden withholding arms since the conflict with Hamas began in October. However, the new $1 billion aid package demonstrates Washington’s continued support for Israel’s defense needs. According to National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, the U.S. is committed to providing the full amount allocated in the $95 billion foreign security aid bill for Ukraine, Israel, and the Indo-Pacific. This new package, which includes $700 million for tank ammunition, $500 million for tactical vehicles, and $60 million for mortar rounds, underscores a long-term commitment to Israel’s defense.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded defiantly to the suspension of bomb deliveries, asserting that Israel would "stand-alone" if necessary. Biden’s decision has sparked divisions within the Democratic Party, with some members supporting his use of leverage over Israel, while others, such as Senators Jacky Rosen and John Fetterman, advocate for unconditional support. The U.S. State Department has warned that American-made weapons may have been used in ways that violate humanitarian rights but have not halted ongoing military aid. Efforts are ongoing to negotiate a temporary ceasefire and secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.

The United States has a long history of supporting Israel, providing significant military, economic, and diplomatic assistance. Since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, this support has intensified. The U.S. has supplied substantial military aid to enhance Israel's defense capabilities, including multiple interceptors for the Iron Dome defense system, thousands of JDAM kits, and other precision-guided munitions, along with 12 additional F-35 aircraft since October 2023.

Additionally, two KC-46A aerial refuelers have been delivered to extend the operational range of the Israeli Air Force, along with 50 M1 Abrams tanks and 20 M109 howitzers to bolster ground forces, and six MQ-9 Reaper drones equipped with advanced surveillance and strike capabilities. In November 2023, Congress approved an emergency aid package of $3.8 billion, with $1 billion specifically allocated for replenishing Iron Dome interceptors. Immediate deliveries of Iron Dome interceptors and precision-guided munitions began in October 2023, followed by the arrival of M1 Abrams tanks and MQ-9 Reaper drones in December 2023. Deliveries of KC-46A refuelers were completed in January 2024.

The U.S.-Israel alliance dates back to the Cold War, with consistent military aid ensuring Israel's qualitative military edge in the region. This support includes the transfer of advanced technologies, joint military exercises, and substantial economic aid. The relationship is reinforced by bipartisan support in the U.S. Congress, with aid packages often receiving overwhelming approval. Despite internal divisions within the Democratic Party, President Biden’s administration has reaffirmed its commitment to Israel’s security through continued military support and diplomatic backing.

This aid is seen as crucial for maintaining stability in the Middle East and supporting a key ally against regional threats, particularly from Iran and its proxies. The United States remains Israel’s staunchest ally, providing comprehensive military assistance to strengthen Israel’s defense capabilities. The recent increase in support, especially since the events of October 7, 2023, underscores the strategic importance of this partnership in promoting regional security and stability.